KUCHING: Sarawak must strengthen students’ mastery of basic mathematics and science to prepare the next generation for future economic sectors, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said the Ujian Penilaian – Dual Language Programme Sarawak Year 6 (UP-DLPS 6) results showed strong performance in English but raised concerns over students’ weaknesses in mathematics and science.
“We can command English, but in maths and science, we have a problem.
“Without an examination, we would not know this. That is why we must have intervention programmes to strengthen mastery of maths and science.
“If we want to move into the new economy, semiconductors, carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS), and renewable energy – we need basic science. Without it, we will struggle,” he said when speaking at the Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) Youth Armada Appreciation Night on Sunday.
Abang Johari said this need for scientific knowledge also guides Sarawak’s stance on rare earths.
“When people talk about rare earths, I say Sarawak wouldn’t export raw rare earths because there are seven strategic metallic elements. If we sell them without processing, we lose out,” he said.
He said the state may instead send young Sarawakians overseas for postgraduate studies to learn rare earth processing.
“When they return, they can process our own resources. This will become our niche in the future,” he said.
He added that Sarawak is committed to providing free tertiary education for its youth.
“We give free tertiary education to Sarawakians, and I will announce the details in the budget. We don’t talk only; we act, for the sake of the new Sarawak. This comes from the spirit within PBB,” he said.
Abang Johari said strengthening science and technical capacity is crucial because such fields will shape global economic policies beyond 2030.
He stressed the youth must be trained to eventually take over leadership roles in both the party and the state, equipped with the knowledge needed to engage internationally.
“The future of Sarawak depends on the quality of leadership among our young people,” he said.
